Are you looking to add some excitement to your dinner routine? Look no further than five-spice powder! This versatile ingredient has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries, and its sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor can elevate everything from meats and vegetables to grains and desserts.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful recipes that showcase the magic of five-spice powder. From classic dishes like Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Wings and Five-Spice Roasted Duck with Orange Sauce, to more modern creations like Five-Spice Tofu and Mushroom Stir-Fry and Five-Spice Fried Rice with Shrimp, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Wings
Add a twist to your wings with this sweet and savory Asian-inspired glaze. Perfect for game-day gatherings or casual dinner parties, these sticky chicken wings are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, five-spice powder, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
3. Add garlic, salt, and pepper; mix until smooth.
4. Toss chicken wings with the glaze until fully coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange wings in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with additional glaze for dipping, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Five-Spice Pork Belly Bao Buns
Experience the fusion of Asian flavors with these soft and fluffy bao buns filled with tender five-spice pork belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup five-spice pork belly (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, flatten slightly, and place a piece of five-spice pork belly in the center.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a ball, and press gently to seal.
6. Steam the bao buns for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of soy sauce.
Note: To make five-spice pork belly, marinate pork belly in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, five-spice powder, garlic, and ginger for at least 2 hours before cooking.
Five-Spice Roasted Duck with Orange Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavor of roasted duck with the brightness of orange sauce, all tied together with the warm spices of five-spice powder. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) duck breast or legs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together five-spice powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the duck, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Roast the duck in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. While the duck is roasting, combine orange segments, chicken broth, and honey in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve the roasted duck with the warm orange sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: approximately 1-2 hours
Five-Spice Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Discover the bold flavors of China with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe, featuring tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a hint of five-spice powder.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp ground five-spice powder
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or sesame seeds for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef; cook 3-4 minutes or until browned, then remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add five-spice powder and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add bell peppers, snow peas, and mushrooms; cook 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return beef to pan and stir in garlic; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, with optional soy sauce or sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Five-Spice Braised Short Ribs
Tender, flavorful short ribs infused with the aromatic warmth of five-spices – a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove ribs; set aside.
5. Add ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and five-spice powder to pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and honey. Stir to combine.
7. Return short ribs to pot; cover with a lid.
8. Transfer pot to preheated oven; braise for 2 hours and 30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Five-Spice Tofu and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavors of five-spice powder with the earthy taste of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to pan, then add mushrooms. Cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, five-spice powder, and sesame oil.
5. Pour the sauce over the mushrooms, then add back the tofu. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Five-Spice Sweet and Sour Pork
This classic Chinese-inspired dish combines the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of vinegar with the savory flavor of pork, all tied together by a hint of five-spice powder. A simple and flavorful recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, and 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
2. Add the pork pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook the pork until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Five-Spice Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warm, spicy notes of five-spice powder. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and five-spice powder.
4. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the spice mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Five-Spice Honey-Glazed Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of five-spice powder with the warmth of honey to create a sticky glaze that elevates salmon to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, five-spice powder, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Drizzle vegetable oil over the glaze to prevent sticking.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Five-Spice Fried Rice with Shrimp
This recipe combines the comfort of fried rice with the sweetness and crunch of shrimp, all infused with the warm, aromatic spices of five-spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the five-spice powder, soy sauce, and salt. Stir-fry for another minute.
6. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry until everything is well combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Five-Spice Spare Ribs with Hoisin Sauce
A sweet and savory twist on traditional spare ribs, these Asian-inspired treats are perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork spare ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, five-spice powder, and brown sugar.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place spare ribs on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the ribs evenly with the soy-honey mixture.
5. Drizzle vegetable oil over the ribs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Five-Spice Vegetarian Dumplings
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with these savory vegetarian dumplings infused with five-spice powder and wrapped in a delicate wrapper. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup cooked and mashed tofu
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– Optional: scallions and soy sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Place a tablespoon of filling (cabbage, tofu, garlic, and five-spice powder) in the center of each wrapper.
6. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape and press edges together to seal.
7. Cook dumplings by steaming or pan-frying for 3-4 minutes on each side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Five-Spice Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the flavors of Asian-inspired five-spice chicken with crisp lettuce leaves and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, five-spice powder, honey, garlic, and salt. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from marinade and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare lettuce leaves by washing and drying them.
5. Assemble wraps by slicing cooked chicken into thin strips and placing on a lettuce leaf with shredded carrots and sliced red bell peppers.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Five-Spice Pumpkin Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and comforting soup, perfect for the cooler months. The combination of roasted pumpkin, five-spice powder, and creamy coconut milk creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, onion, garlic, cinnamon, five-spice powder, and salt on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. In a large pot, combine roasted pumpkin, broth, and coconut milk. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
5. Blend soup until smooth, then serve hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Five-Spice Lamb Kebabs with Mint Yogurt
Elevate your grilling game with these aromatic lamb kebabs, infused with the warm spices of five-spice and served with a cooling dollop of mint yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, five-spice powder, and olive oil. Mix well until just combined.
3. Thread lamb mixture onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, mix yogurt and mint leaves in a bowl.
6. Serve lamb kebabs with mint yogurt sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Five-Spice Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this sweet and savory fusion of Asian flavors, featuring five-spice noodles, crunchy veggies, and a creamy peanut dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Toss with five-spice powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey until smooth.
3. Add chopped scallions, bell peppers, cucumber, and peanuts to the dressing. Mix well.
4. Combine cooked noodles and dressing in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Serve over mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Five-Spice Caramelized Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the warmth of five-spice powder with the richness of caramelized sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and five-spice powder.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Remove skillet from heat and brush the honey-soy glaze evenly over the pork chops.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until pork reaches internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let pork rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Five-Spice Apple Pie with Cinnamon
Elevate your pie game with the warm, aromatic flavors of five-spice powder and the comforting sweetness of cinnamon. This unique dessert combines the classic apple filling with a hint of exotic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups mixed apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, Gala), peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, five-spice powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until coated.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture.
4. Dot the top with butter pieces.
5. Brush egg wash around the edges of the crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Elevate your dinner game with these 18 flavorful recipes that feature the versatile and aromatic five-spice powder. From savory dishes like Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Wings and Five-Spice Pork Belly Bao Buns to sweet treats like Five-Spice Apple Pie, there’s something for everyone. Discover new ways to use this popular spice blend in recipes ranging from stir-fries and braises to roasted meats and vegetables. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these five-spice powder recipes are sure to please even the pickiest palates.
